Recreation Specialist

Job Overview The City of Costa Mesa’s Parks and Community Services Department is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Recreation Specialist to join our dynamic team. This full‑time position focuses on youth programming in the Teen Program, offering passionate community engagement and quality recreational programs. Responsibilities Coordinate, schedule, and supervise staff and activities for multiple after‑school teen centers for youth between 7th and 12th grade. Supervise and plan a fee‑based teen camp and year‑round excursions for youth entering 7th through 12th grade. Plan six themed special events for teenagers annually. Assist the Recreation Coordinator in day‑to‑day operations of community centers and recreational facilities. Plan, promote, coordinate, implement, and evaluate specialized recreation programs such as aquatics, adult and youth fitness, early childhood education, senior center, and special events. Supervise part‑time staff and volunteers in various program areas. Prepare printed materials, conduct outreach, set measurable goals, manage budget revenues and expenditures, train staff, prepare schedules, maintain accurate financial records, and report to management. Establish positive relationships with community organizations, city partners, the Newport‑Mesa Unified School District, and secure sponsors as needed. Monitor and patrol community center facilities, ensuring adherence to safety practices and protocols; review incident/accident reports and recommend preventative measures. Prepare and maintain files, databases, and comprehensive written and oral activity reports. Oversee the community center’s receptionist desk and assist with customer service responses. May supervise a community center in the absence of the Recreation Coordinator or Assistant Recreation Supervisor. When assigned to youth programming, coordinate, schedule, and supervise year‑round programs for youth ranging from early childhood (3–5 years old), elementary (5–12 years old), and teens (12–17 years old) that provide academic enrichment, recreation play, athletics, events, and socialization. When assigned to aquatics, implement and supervise aquatic class registration processes, and may perform duties as lifeguard or instructor. When assigned to the senior center, organize, develop, and supervise specialized programs and events for seniors, including transportation, food distribution, and volunteer programs. When assigned to facilities and events, oversee rental contracts for City facilities and plan monthly special events at Lions Park. Qualifications Must be at least 18 years of age. Education equivalent to an Associate of Arts degree in recreation, physical education, public or business administration, or a related field. One year of experience in planning, promoting, coordinating, and facilitating recreation or senior programs and special events, including supervisory experience. Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Class C California driver’s license; knowledge of or capability to obtain a Commercial Class C driver license with a passenger endorsement may be required. Possession of valid CPR and first‑aid certificates; ability to obtain additional certifications within specified timeframes (e.g., lifeguard certifications, water safety instructor). Knowledge of modern theories, principles, and practices of community services and recreation programming. Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to the assigned program. Knowledge of youth program operations, pool operations, American Red Cross policies, senior community trends, and facility management as applicable to the assignment. Ability to plan, coordinate, and lead a specialized recreation program; provide direction to part‑time and seasonal staff; recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate volunteers; maintain accurate financial and equipment inventory; prepare clear reports and correspondence; communicate effectively; work weekend and evening hours. Must fulfill disaster service worker duties as required by City policy. Physical ability to perform required tasks and meet environmental conditions; accommodations available on a case‑by‑case basis. The City of Costa Mesa is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment offers are contingent upon proof of legal authorization to work in the United States, comprehensive background check, live‑scan fingerprint check, post‑offer medical evaluation, and potential drug and alcohol testing. Updated: 2/17/26 #J-18808-Ljbffr City of Costa Mesa